King James Version
What Does Judges 5:16 Mean?
“Why abodest thou among the sheepfolds, to hear the bleatings of the flocks? For the divisions of Reuben there were great searchings of heart. For: or, In”
Context
14
Out of Ephraim was there a root of them against Amalek; after thee, Benjamin, among thy people; out of Machir came down governors, and out of Zebulun they that handle the pen of the writer. handle: Heb. draw with
15
And the princes of Issachar were with Deborah; even Issachar, and also Barak: he was sent on foot into the valley. For the divisions of Reuben there were great thoughts of heart. foot: Heb. his feet thoughts: Heb. impressions For: or, In
16
Why abodest thou among the sheepfolds, to hear the bleatings of the flocks? For the divisions of Reuben there were great searchings of heart. For: or, In
17
Gilead abode beyond Jordan: and why did Dan remain in ships? Asher continued on the sea shore, and abode in his breaches. shore: or, port breaches: or, creeks
18
Zebulun and Naphtali were a people that jeoparded their lives unto the death in the high places of the field. jeoparded: Heb. exposed to reproach
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16) **Sheepfolds.**—Literally, *hurdles *(*mishpethaim*)*, *the dual form being due to some method of their construction. Hence the Vulgate renders, *inter duos terminos.*
**The bleatings of the flocks.**—Rather, *the sounds of shepherds’ flutes *or *pastoral pipings *(“Shepherds delighting in syrinx-pipes,” Hom., *Il. xviii.* 525). There is a contrast between these peaceful flutings and the battle-horns to which they ought to have been listening. It is as though Deborah would say to Reuben—
“Sound, sound the clarion, shrill the fife;
To all the sensual world proclaim,
One crowded hour of glorious life
Is worth an age without a name.”
**For the divisions.**—It should be, as before, “By the streams of Reuben.”
**Searchings of heart.**—Reuben sent magnanimous debates and promises, but they only ended in sloth and vacillation. They decided to go, and—stayed at home.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Judges. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Judges 5:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Judges 5:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge